California Faces Severe Bird Flu Outbreak in Dairy Farms

The state reports increased infection and fatality rates in cattle, with three human cases potentially linked to the outbreak.

California has become the epicenter of a bird flu outbreak affecting dairy cattle, with 82 farms testing positive for H5N1.
The infection rates in California's herds are significantly higher than in other states, with up to 60% of cows affected and 15% fatalities reported.
Three farmworkers in California have tested positive for bird flu, marking potential animal-to-human transmission, though symptoms have been mild so far.
Public health officials are concerned about inadequate protection for farmworkers and the potential for more severe human cases if the outbreak is not controlled.
Efforts are underway to monitor and contain the virus, including increased testing and distribution of protective gear to farmworkers.